The thought of Celtic away makes you sing their famous anthem – I can’t wait to fulfil lifelong dream

Sturm Graz star Emir Karic can’t wait to experience ‘one of the best atmospheres in all of Europe’ at Parkhead in the Europa League

Celtic host Sturm Graz in the Europa League on matchday three

Emir Karic can’t wait to fulfil a lifelong dream by playing at Celtic Park and reckons it is one of the best atmospheres in Europe.

The Sturm Graz star and his team-mates jet in to Glasgow for Thursday’s Europa League showdown as Brendan Rodgers and Co resume their campaign with a game against the Austrian side.

Celtic lost out to Braga last time out after an opening day point ahead of the matchday three fixture card.

Sturm defender Karic has revealed his excitement of turning out in Glasgow’s east end and it was a tie and venue he was desperate to land when the league phase draw was made.

He said: “The atmosphere at Celtic Park is one of the best in all of Europe.

“The thought of it makes you start singing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone.’

“Even when the draw for the Europa League’s league phase was made, I hoped we’d play Celtic away. The draw was kind. I’m incredibly excited.

“I was actually in Glasgow with my school. I saw Rangers at Ibrox and also watched a Scottish international match at Hampden Park.

“So for me, all I am missing is Celtic Park.

Emir Karic in action for Sturm Graz

“Remembering those games in Glasgow still gives me goosebumps all over my body.

“The Scottish fans have a crazy mentality and are different from those in all of Europe. But you have to experience it once.

“We have beaten Rangers in the Europa League already and that proved we are a good team.

“We always believe we can win games.

“I’m loving playing in the Europa League too because there is nothing better than playing a lot, training very little and gaining a lot of great experiences, points and victories in the process.”